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June 12, 2025 10 mins

Writing a short film script can feel like trying to squeeze a novel into a sticky note. Can you really fit a full character arc, plot structure, and emotional payoff into just 10 minutes of screen time?

In this episode, Zena answers the question: does the Hollywood Plot Map apply to short films, or is it overkill?

Her answer might surprise you—and give you permission to stop overthinking and start trusting your creative instincts.

What You’ll Learn:
- Which story elements are absolutely essential in a short film—and which ones you can let go.
- Why short films come with more creative freedom… and why that can make them even harder to get right.
- How to think about character transformation when you don’t have the luxury of 90 pages.

Want to ask Zena your own burning story questions?This episode is pulled directly from her exclusive Office Hours—a private, monthly Q&A available to anyone who has ever purchased a class.

If you're ready to deepen your craft and get personal feedback from Zena herself, check out her online courses and unlock lifetime access to Office Hours.


Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO



#amwriting #authorproblems #shortstory #screenplayformat #writingtips #writersconnection #christianscreenwriter 

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